Information code product, manufacturing device and method for manufacturing the same, information code reading device, authentication system, authentication terminal, authentication server, and authentication method

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an information code product which includes information codes having predetermined coded information, a device and a method, for manufacturing the information code product, an information code reading device for reading the information codes, e.g., two-dimensional bar codes, on the information code product, and to an authentication system for identifying the user of an information code product, e.g., a card, by using the information code product, an authentication terminal, an authentication server, and an authentication method.

2. Description of Related Art

As information codes including predetermined coded information, black and white bar codes consisting of black bars in a white background are generally known.

Recently, two-dimensional bar codes, color bar codes (for example, as shown in Japanese Patent Publication No. Tokukai-hei-8-96097) and the like are also used, in order to increase the amount of information included therein.

As an information code article including much information, for example, a magnetic card used for a credit card and the like is also known.

However, although the information in conventional bar codes or in a conventional credit card are coded, there is a danger of performing information decoding by a third person because the information itself is exposed to the outside and therefore has only a little secrecy.

As a result, it was difficult to construct a good information management system by using information codes such as bar codes, in a field to which a strict information secrecy is required.

In conventional bar codes or a conventional magnetic card, there is a problem of small information capacity and limitation on design. Conventional bar codes have a further problem of exhaustion of patterns for themselves.

As a personal information medium which comprises a card including coded personal identifying information therein, a credit card is generally known. Coded information are hidden in, for example, black and white bar codes, two dimensional bar codes, a magnetic tape, an IC chip and the like.

In order to conduct a transaction by a credit card, the codes in the card are read by using a reading device for credit card exclusive use, the read codes information are sent to a card company to check if the request is correct, and a signature on a slip is required to the user of the card, to check if the user is the owner of the card.

However, although the information in conventional bar codes, a magnetic tape, an IC chip or the like are coded, there is a danger of performing information decoding by a third person because the information itself is exposed to the outside and therefore has only a little secrecy. There are also dangers of the reading device being converted, of a leakage of information by interruption into the line.

Recently, damage according to an illegal use of forged card increases because it is easy to forge a card with a magnetic tape or an IC chip by rewriting therein. Damage according to an illegal use of lost or stolen card by a third person also increases because it is easy for every person to imitate the owner's signature which is exposed on the card.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention has been made in view of the above problems.

It is an object of the invention to provide an information code product which includes information codes having predetermined coded information, an apparatus and a method, for manufacturing the information code product, and an information code reading device for reading the information codes on the information code product.

It is another object of the invention to provide an authentication system for identifying the owner of an information code product, e.g., a card, by using the information code product, an authentication terminal, an authentication server, and an authentication method, which improve security for the information codes.

The present invention was developed in view of the above-described problems.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the information code product (e.g., bar code sticker <b>101</b>) comprises a body (e.g., paper <b>105</b> for printing) having a code-including image (<b>104</b>) formed thereon which includes at least one unit of information codes (e.g., two-dimensional bar codes <b>103</b>) with one or more specific color, wherein the unit of information codes is adapted to be obtained by extracting an image with the specific color from the code-including image.

According to the information code product, because the unit of information codes with one or more specific color is included in the image, any person cannot obtain the information codes unless the person knows the specific color. Accordingly, it is possible to improve security for the information codes.

That is, because the information codes are hidden in the image, and therefore the information codes cannot be recognized by just seeing the code including image. Therefore, the information code product according to the invention provides excellent security in comparison with a product having exposed information codes, e.g., a conventional two-dimensional bar codes product, a magnetic card or the like.

Therefore, such information codes enable use in a technical field which requires information security strictly.

An image may include a plurality of units of information codes with different specific color. Accordingly, it is possible to increase the amount of information included in the image and further to increase information security.

Further, it is possible to increase information security by using a unit of information codes such as two-dimensional bar codes, which has a combination of a plurality of specific colors.

Herein, the term “information codes” includes any of coded information, e.g., one-dimensional bar codes, two-dimensional bar codes, hologram or the like.

The term “specific color” may be a desired color which is determined, for example, by changing the mixture ratio of cyan, magenta, yellow and black, and the like.

The term “information code product” means every product on the surface of which an image with information codes are formed, that is, it includes a card or sticker of plastic, paper or the like, e.g., a company ID card, a cash card for bank and the like, goods, a container or a rapping paper for goods, and the like.

The term “image” may be a desired one, and includes one according to a picture of portrait, scenery, or the like, and may be one created factitiously such as a mosaic image.

The term “image including information codes may be synthesized image data of prepared information codes and data of an original image captured from a picture or the like, or original image data such as a picture or the like, from which information codes with a specific color were created.

Preferably, the code-including image comprises a synthesis of an original image (e.g., scenic image <b>102</b>) and at least one unit of information codes with one or more specific color.

According to the information code product, it is possible to prepare the code-including image easily and to improve the application flexibility. It is possible to use the same information codes to different data of original pictures.

Preferably, the unit of information codes is a unit of two-dimensional bar codes with the one or more specific color.

According to the product having such a construction, because the information codes comprise a unit of two-dimensional bar codes, it is possible to increase the information amount therein and to prepare the code-including image easily.

Preferably, the unit of information codes is split into plural pieces, and the split pieces (<b>207</b><i>a</i>-<b>207</b><i>d</i>) of information codes (e.g., two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b>) are arranged in desired regions (<b>202</b><i>a</i>-<b>202</b><i>d</i>) at desired positions in the code-including image on the body (e.g., card substrate <b>203</b>) and are adapted to obtain the unit of information codes by extracting pieces of images with the specific color from the code-including image in the desired regions at the desired positions and combining the pieces of images extracted.

In the information code product according to the invention, because the unit of information codes is split into plural pieces and the split pieces of information codes are arranged in desired regions at desired positions in the code-including image, any person cannot obtain the information codes unless the person knows all of the arrangement positions and regions of the split pieces of information codes, the arrangement relationship between the split pieces to be combined, and the specific color. Accordingly, it is possible to improve security for the information codes.

That is, because the information codes are split in pieces and are hidden in the image, and therefore the entirety of the information codes cannot be obtained until combining the split pieces of information codes appropriately, the information code product according to the invention provides excellent security in comparison with a product having exposed information codes, e.g., a conventional two-dimensional bar codes product, a magnetic card or the like.

It is also possible to increase flexibility for design of the product because the split of information codes can be arranged at desired positions on the original image.

The positions and regions at which information codes are arranged may be predetermined or may be changed by using random number on the basis of a user's password or the like, or may be changed freely according to the user's preference.

Preferably, at least one of the split pieces of information codes is scaled down.

According to the information code product having such a structure, because no person can obtain the correct unit of two-dimensional bar codes unless the person knows also the scale-down ratio of the scaled-down split piece, it is possible to prevent illegal reading of the information codes.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the information code product (e.g., an ID card <b>250</b>) comprises a code-including image (<b>251</b>) formed on a body (e.g., card substrate <b>256</b>), which includes a plurality of units (e.g., units <b>252</b>-<b>255</b> of two-dimensional bar codes) of information codes with one or more specific color, including predetermined coded information,

wherein each of the plurality of units of information codes is arranged in a region at a desired position in the code-including image on the body and are adapted to obtain a desired unit of information codes by extracting a code image with the specific color from a corresponding region in the code-including image.

According to the information code product having such a structure, because a plurality of units of information codes are arranged at desired positions in an image, even if a person could specify the region and position for the unit of the necessary information codes, it is possible to make the construction for the person not to be able to read other units of information codes. Accordingly, it is possible to improve security for the information codes.

The plurality of units of information codes may have specific colors different to one another. According to such a structure, it is possible to increase the amount of information codes and to further improve security for the information codes.

Such a structure to increase the amount of information codes enables provision of a multipurpose card including a large number of information, e.g., insurance number, ID number, passwords and the like. Because each unit of the information codes can be arranged at desired positions on the original image, it is possible to increase flexibility for design of the ID card.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the method for manufacturing an information code product, comprising the steps of:

synthesizing data of at least one unit of information codes (e.g., two-dimensional bar codes <b>103</b>) with one or more specific color, and data of an original image (e.g., scenic image <b>102</b>), to make a synthesized image data (<b>104</b>) and

forming the synthesized image data on a body (e.g., paper <b>105</b> for print).

According to the method for manufacturing an information code product, any person cannot obtain the information codes in the synthesized image data unless the person knows the specific color. Accordingly, it is possible to improve security for the information codes.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the method for manufacturing an information code product, comprising the steps of:

preparing data of at least one unit of information codes with one or more specific color, and data of an original image,

synthesizing the data of at least one unit of information codes and data of an original image, to make a synthesized image data, by replacing color data of a portion having the specific color in the data of the original image, with another color data, and by replacing color data of portions in the data of the original image superimposed on the information codes, with the one of the specific color, and

forming the synthesized image data on a body.

According to the method, because data of a portion having the specific color in the data of the original image are replaced with another color data, and data of portions in the data of the original image superimposed on the information codes are replaced with the one of the specific color, it is possible to prevent an error caused by capturing an image having no connection with the information codes.

Preferably, the unit of information codes is the one of two-dimensional bar codes with the one or more specific color.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the method for manufacturing an information code product, comprising the steps of:

creating at least one unit of two-dimensional bar codes with one or more specific color, on the basis of data of a desired image,

storing data of the created at least one unit of two-dimensional bar codes, and

forming the desired image on a body.

According to the method, because a unit of two-dimensional bar codes with one or more specific color is created from the data of a desired image directly, an individual unit of two-dimensional bar codes with different specific color can be included into data of individual images. Therefore, it is possible to further improve security for the information codes.

That is, because the two-dimensional bar codes included in each individual image have colors peculiar to the image, it is possible to increase information security than use of two-dimensional bar codes having a common color.

The manufacturing method further may comprise the steps of:

splitting the unit of information codes (e.g., two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b>) into plural pieces (e.g., split two-dimensional bar code pieces <b>207</b><i>a</i>-<b>207</b><i>d</i>),

designating a position and a region on the original image (e.g., face picture <b>205</b> and space image <b>206</b>), for each piece of the split unit of information codes to be synthesized, and

synthesizing each piece of the split unit of information codes with the original image at the designated position and in the designated region, to make data of a synthesized image.

In the manufacturing method, after a unit of information codes with one or more specific color is split into plural pieces, a position and a region on the original image, for each piece of the split unit of information codes are designated and synthesized, to form the synthesized image on a surface of a body. Therefore, because no person can obtain the complete unit of information codes before splitting unless the person knows the specific color of the information codes, the positions and regions of the split pieces of the information codes on the synthesized image data, and the arrangement relationship between the split pieces, it is possible to improve the security for the information codes and to increase flexibility for design of the product because the split of information codes can be arranged at desired positions on the original image.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the manufacturing method for manufacturing an information code product, comprises the steps of:

designating positions and regions, of a plurality of units of information codes (e.g., units <b>252</b>-<b>255</b> of two-dimensional bar codes) with one or more specific color, including predetermined coded information, to synthesize to the original image,

synthesizing the plurality of units of information codes with the original image at the designated positions and in the regions, to make data of a synthesized image, and

forming the synthesized image on a body (e.g., card substrate <b>256</b>).

In the manufacturing method, because the positions and regions on the original image, of the plurality of units of information codes with one or more specific color are designated and synthesized to make a synthesized image data, and a synthesized image is formed on a body, even if a person could specify the position and region on the original image, of one unit of information codes, it is possible to make the construction for the person not to read other units of information codes. Therefore, it is possible to improve security for the information codes.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing an information code product, comprises:

a synthesizing section (<b>114</b>) for synthesizing data of at least one unit of information codes (e.g., two-dimensional bar codes <b>103</b>) with one or more specific color, and data of an original image (e.g., scenic image <b>102</b>), to make a synthesized image data and

a forming section (<b>116</b>) for forming the synthesized image data on a body (e.g., paper <b>105</b> for print).

According to manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing an information code product, any person cannot obtain the information codes in the synthesized image data unless the person knows the specific color. Accordingly, it is possible to improve security for the information codes.

Preferably, the synthesizing section (<b>114</b>) makes the synthesized image data (<b>104</b>), by replacing color data of a portion having the specific color in the data of the original image (<b>102</b>), with another color data, and by replacing color data of portions in the data of the original image superimposed on the information codes (<b>103</b>), with the one of the specific color.

According to the manufacturing apparatus, because data of a portion having the specific color in the data of the original image are replaced with another color data, and data of portions in the data of the original image superimposed on the information codes are replaced with the one of the specific color, it is possible to prevent an error caused by capturing an image having no connection with the information codes.

Preferably, the unit of information codes is the one of two-dimensional bar codes with the one or more specific color.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing an information code product (e.g., an IC card manufacturing apparatus <b>210</b>), comprises:

an original image data capture section (<b>212</b>) for capturing data of a desired original image,

a specific color designating member (<b>214</b>) for designating one or more specific color to each of a plurality of units of information codes including predetermined coded information,

a synthesizing position designating member (<b>216</b>) for designating positions and regions, of the original image, to combine the plurality of units of information codes,

a synthesizing member (<b>217</b>) for synthesizing the plurality of units of information codes with the original image at the designated positions and in the regions, to make data of a synthesized image, and

a formation member (<b>219</b>) for forming the synthesized image on a body.

According to the manufacturing apparatus, it is possible to provide an information code product which has an excellent security for the information codes and increases the amount of information codes and flexibility for design of the product.

Preferably, the manufacturing apparatus further comprises an information code splitting member (<b>215</b>) for splitting at least one unit of information codes into plural pieces, and the specific color designating member designates one or more specific color to each of plural pieces of the split unit of information codes, and the synthesizing position designating member designates a position and a region, of the original image, to compose each of plural pieces of the split unit of information codes.

According to the manufacturing apparatus having such a structure, because the entirety of unit of information codes is not obtained until split pieces of information codes are appropriately combined, no person can obtain the complete unit of information codes unless the person knows the synthesizing positions and regions, and the arrangement relationship between the split pieces. Accordingly, it is possible to provide an information code product which has a further excellent security for the information codes.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the information code reading apparatus (<b>130</b>) for reading information codes from an information code product (e.g., bar code sticker <b>101</b>) with a code-including image which includes a unit of information codes with a specific color, in a desired region at a desired position, comprises:

an illumination member (<b>131</b>, <b>132</b>) for illuminating a light with substantially the same color as the specific color of the information codes, to the code-including image,

an information code extracting member (<b>136</b>) for extracting the information codes with the specific color, on the basis of data of light reflected by the code-including image, and

a decoding member (<b>137</b>) for decoding the information codes extracted by the information code extracting member.

In the information code reading apparatus, because after the light with substantially the same color as the specific color of the hidden information codes, is illuminated to the code-including image, the information codes with the specific color are extracted on the basis of data of light reflected by the code-including image, the hidden information codes in the image can be decoded.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the information code reading apparatus (<b>140</b>) for reading information codes from an information code product with a code-including image which includes a unit of information codes with a specific color, in a desired region at a desired position, comprises:

an image capturing member (<b>141</b>) for capturing data of the code-including image on the product (e.g., bar code sticker <b>101</b>),

an information code extracting member (<b>142</b>) for extracting the information codes by extracting an image with the specific color from the data of the code-including image captured by the image capturing member, and

a decoding member (<b>143</b>) for decoding the information codes extracted by the information code extracting member.

In the information code reading apparatus, because the information codes are obtained by extracting an image with the specific color from the data of the captured code-including image, thus the hidden information codes in the image can be decoded.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the information code reading apparatus (e.g., bar code reading device <b>230</b>) for reading information codes from an information code product with a code-including image which includes a unit of information codes with a specific color, in a desired region at a desired position, comprising:

a position designating member (e.g., storage section <b>231</b> and reading position designating section <b>232</b>) for designating the desired position and the desired region in the image, including the unit of information codes,

an illumination member (e.g., light source section <b>233</b> and light control section <b>234</b>) for illuminating a light with substantially the same color as the specific color of the information codes, to the code-including image,

an information code extracting member (e.g., bar code obtaining section <b>238</b>) for extracting the information codes with the specific color, on the basis of data of light reflected by the code-including image in the desired region, and

a reading member (e.g., decoder <b>239</b>) for reading the information codes extracted by the information code extracting member.

In the information code reading apparatus, because after a light with substantially the same color as the specific color of the information codes, is illuminated to the code-including image, the information codes with the specific color are extracted on the basis of data of light reflected by the code-including image in the desired region, it is possible to read the information code with the specific color in a desired region at a desired position.

The light with the specific color from the illumination member may be illuminated over the entire surface of the code-including image and may be also illuminated only onto the region at the position in the image, designated by the position designating member.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the information code reading apparatus (e.g., a bar code reading device <b>240</b>) for reading information codes from an information code product with a code-including image which includes a unit of information codes with a specific color, in a desired region at a desired position, comprising:

an image capturing member (e.g., an image scanner <b>241</b>) for capturing data of the code-including image on the product,

a position designating member (e.g., a storage section <b>242</b>, and a reading position designating section <b>243</b>) for designating the position and the region in the code-including image, including the unit of information codes,

a color selection member (e.g., a specific color selection section <b>244</b>) for selecting the specific color of the information codes,

an information code extracting member (e.g., an image analysis section <b>245</b>) for extracting the information codes by extracting an image with the specific color from the data of the code-including image captured by the image capturing member, on the basis of the position and the region designated by the position designating member, and

a reading member (<b>246</b>) for reading the information codes extracted by the information code extracting member.

In the information code reading apparatus, because the information codes are extracted by extracting an image with the specific color from the captured data of the code-including image, on the basis of the designated information of position and region, it is possible to read the information code with the specific color in an image.

The information code extracting member may obtain desired information codes by combining a plurality of pieces of information codes to obtain a desired unit of information codes.

According to the information code reading apparatus, because desired information codes are obtained by combining a plurality of pieces of information codes to obtain a desired unit of information codes, it is possible to read even a desired unit of information codes being split into plural pieces.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the authentication system (<b>301</b>) for authenticating a user of an information code product (e.g., a credit card <b>305</b>), comprising a network (<b>304</b>) interconnecting an authentication terminal (<b>302</b>) for reading data which are included in the card and an authentication server (<b>303</b>), wherein

the information code product comprises a body having a code-including image formed thereon which includes a first unit of identifying information codes (e.g., two-dimensional bar codes <b>307</b> and <b>308</b>), with at least a first specific color including coded identifying information for identifying the owner and a second unit of owner's information codes with at least a second specific color, including coded information for the owner other than the coded identifying information,

the authentication terminal is adapted to capture data of the code-including image of the information code product, to obtain the coded identifying information by extracting an image with the at least a first specific color from the code-including image, and to obtain the identifying information by decoding, and to send the data of the code-including image captured from the information code product to the authentication server when the obtained identifying information matches an input information input by the user, and

the authentication server generates an authentication result for the user on the basis of the data of the code-including image sent from the authentication terminal, and send an authentication result signal according to the authentication result to the authentication terminal.

In the authentication system according to the invention, because the authentication terminal is adapted to capture data of the code-including image of the information code product, to obtain the coded identifying information by extracting an image with the at least a first specific color from the code-including image, and to obtain the identifying information by decoding, and to send the data of the code-including image captured from the information code product to the authentication server when the obtained identifying information matches an input information input by a user, the authentication terminal can judge whether the input information by the user is correct, to authenticating the user.

As the identifying information, although passwords are typically used, the owner's signature can be also used. The owner's signature may be also included in the owner's information. According to such a structure, because the owner's signature is not exposed on the product, it makes difficult to imitate the signature of the owner by a third person and therefore it is possible to prevent an illegal use of the information code product such as a card.

The network includes not only the one of using public telephone line but a private line network including an office network, internet or the like.

The information code product includes every product including an image of information codes thereon, for identifying the owner thereof. The product may have various types of shape, e.g., card shape, rectangular parallelopiped shape, ball shape and the like. The one of the card shape includes a credit card, a cash card for bank, a card for using in an intelligent building, and the like.

Preferably, the data sent to the authentication server from the authentication terminal are the one of the code-including image of the information code product and the identifying information, and the authentication server obtains the coded information for the owner by extracting an image with the at least a second specific color, from the sent code-including image, and obtains the information for the owner by decoding, to generate the authentication result for the user.

According to the authentication system having such a structure, because the information of the owner is sent in the form of coded image data and is analyzed by the authentication server, it is possible to prevent a leakage of information by interruption into the line or by conversion of the reading device. Therefore, it is possible to provide an authentication which improve security for the information codes.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the authentication terminal (<b>302</b>) which is interconnected with an authentication server (<b>303</b>) through a network (<b>304</b>), for authenticating a user of an information code product by reading data included in the information code product (e.g., credit card <b>305</b>), comprises:

an image capture section (<b>322</b>) for capturing data of a code-including image (<b>306</b>) in the information code product, the code-including image including a first unit of identifying information codes (<b>307</b>) with at least a first specific color, which includes coded identifying information for identifying the owner and a second unit of owner's information codes (<b>308</b>) with at least a second specific color, which includes coded information for the owner other than the coded identifying information,

an image analysis section (<b>323</b>) for obtaining the coded identifying information by extracting an image with at least the first specific color from the code-including image, to obtain the identifying information by decoding,

a transmitting section (<b>325</b>) for sending the data of the code-including image captured by the image capture section to the authentication server when the obtained identifying information matches an input information input by the user, and

a receiving section (<b>326</b>) for receiving an authentication result for the user, which is generated by an authentication server on the basis of the sent data of the code-including image.

According to the authentication terminal having such a structure, because the image analysis section (<b>323</b>) obtains the coded identifying information by extracting a coded image with the first specific color from the code-including image, it is possible to obtain the identifying information of the owner of the information code product by decoding the extracted coded image.

Because the data of the code-including image are sent to the authentication server when the obtained identifying information matches an input information input by the user, and the receiving section receives an authentication result for the user, which is generated by an authentication server on the basis of the sent data of the code-including image, it is possible to prevent a leakage of information by interruption into the line.

Preferably, when the received authentication result includes an approval signal for giving an approval of reading the owner's information, the image analysis section extracts an image with at least the second specific color from the code-including image on the basis of the arrangement information of the owner's information codes, which is designated by the identifying information, to obtain the owner's information by decoding.

According to the authentication terminal having such a structure, because no owner's information can be obtained so long as no approval signal is obtained, it is possible to prevent a leakage of information by misusing the authentication terminal. Therefore, it is possible to provide an authentication which improve security for the information codes.

The arrangement information of the owner's information codes, may be determined at will, for example, on the basis of a random number corresponding to the identifying information, on the basis of a value found by applying the identifying information and the date of birth of the owner into a formula, or the like.

The authentication terminal may further comprises an input device for inputting user's signature (e.g., tablet <b>327</b>), and a judging device (e.g., CPU <b>320</b>) for judging if the input user's signature is correct.

According to the authentication terminal having such a structure, because the user inputs a signature into the input device directly without filling in a paper or the like, no traces of the signature remain on the paper or the like, therefore, it is difficult for a third person to imitate the signature. As a result, it is possible to prevent an illegal use of a card or the like, and to provide an authentication system which improve security for the information codes.

Because a judging device for judging if the input user's signature is correct, is provided, it is possible to perform automatic authentication of a user.

The terminal may have an individual number itself and the transmitting section sends the individual number together with the data of the code-including image captured by the image capture section, to the authentication server.

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent misuse of the authentication terminal. Therefore, it is possible to provide an authentication terminal which improve security for the information codes.

The authentication terminal may further comprise a volatile storage section (e.g., ROM <b>321</b><i>a</i>) for storing the arrangement information of the owner's information codes which is designated by the identifying information.

Because if the supply of current is stopped, the arrangement information of the owner's information codes stored in the storage section also disappear, it is impossible to read the data of the card or the like when the storage section is removed from the terminal. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a leakage of information by misusing the authentication terminal.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the authentication server (<b>303</b>) which is interconnected with an authentication terminal (<b>302</b>) through a network (<b>304</b>), for authenticating a user of an information code product by reading data included in the information code product, comprises:

a receiving section (<b>331</b>) for receiving the data of the code-including image including owner's information codes (<b>308</b>) with at least a second specific color and coded identifying information for identifying an owner of the product, which are sent from the authentication terminal,

an image analysis section (<b>333</b>) for extracting a coded image with at least the second specific color from the code-including image on the basis of the coded identifying information, to obtain the owner's information by decoding,

an authentication result creating section (<b>330</b>) for creating an authentication result for the user on the basis of the obtained the owner's information, and

a transmitting section (<b>335</b>) for sending the authentication result to the authentication terminal.

In the authentication server having such a structure, the authentication server extracts a coded image with at least the second specific color from the code-including image on the basis of the coded identifying information, and obtains the owner's information by decoding extracted coded image. Accordingly, the authentication server can decode the codes with the second specific color hidden in a code-including image, and thereby can authenticate the user on the basis of the obtained the owner's information.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the authentication method for authenticating a user of an information code product which comprises a code-including image formed thereon which includes a first unit of identifying information codes with at least a first specific color, including coded identifying information for identifying an owner of the product and a second unit of owner's information codes with at least a second specific color, including coded information for the owner other than the coded identifying information, by using an authentication terminal for reading data which are included in the product and an authentication server which is interconnected to the authentication terminal through a network, the method comprises the steps of:

capturing data of the code-including image of the information code product (S<b>102</b>),

extracting an image with at least the first specific color from the code-including image, to obtain the identifying information by decoding (S<b>103</b>),

sending the data of the code-including image captured from the information code product to the authentication server when the obtained identifying information matches an input information input by the user (S<b>107</b>), and

receiving an authentication result generated by the authentication server, on the basis of the data of the code-including image (S<b>110</b>).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given hereinbelow and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present invention, and wherein;

FIG. 1 is a view showing a bar code sticker according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a structure of the principal portion of a bar code sticker manufacturing apparatus;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a structure of the principal portion of another bar code sticker manufacturing apparatus;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a structure of the principal portion of a bar code reading device;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a structure of the principal portion of another bar code reading device;

FIG. 6 is a view showing an ID card according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a view showing an original image for the ID card shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a view showing a unit of two-dimensional bar codes before being split, which is hidden in the image on the ID card;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a structure of the principal portion of an ID card manufacturing apparatus;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a structure of the principal portion of a bar code reading device;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a structure of the principal portion of another bar code reading device;

FIG. 12 is a view showing an ID card according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 13A-13D are views showing four units of two-dimensional bar codes before being split, which are hidden in the image on the ID card;

FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a credit card authentication system of the invention;

FIG. 15 a view showing a credit card used in the credit card authentication system of the invention;

FIGS. 16A and 16B are views showing different units of two-dimensional bar codes, which are hidden in the image on the credit card;

FIG. 17 is a flow chart for explaining the function of the authentication terminal of the invention; and

FIG. 18 is a flow chart for explaining the function of the authentication server of the invention.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

The information code printed article (information code product), a method for manufacturing the information code printed article, a method for manufacturing bar code printed article, and a bar code reading device, according to an embodiment of the present invention will be explained.

FIG. 1 shows a bar code sticker according to an embodiment of an information code product of the invention.

In FIG. 1, the bar code sticker <b>101</b> which is an information code printed article comprises a paper <b>105</b> for printing, on which a synthesized image <b>104</b> is printed. The synthesized image <b>104</b> is formed by synthesizing data of a scenic image <b>102</b> as an original color image with at least one prepared data unit <b>103</b> of two-dimensional bar codes (information codes) having one or more specific color.

The color of the data unit <b>103</b> of two-dimensional bar codes is determined in advance by specifying the ratio of three colors to be mixed, i.e., cyan, magenta and yellow.

Next, the method for manufacturing the bar code sticker <b>101</b> will be explained with reference to FIG. <b>2</b>.

In order to manufacture the bar code sticker <b>101</b>, for example, a bar code sticker manufacturing device <b>110</b> is used. The bar code sticker manufacturing device <b>110</b> comprises an original image data capture unit <b>111</b>, a two-dimensional bar code creating unit <b>112</b>, a specific color input unit <b>113</b>, an image data synthesizing unit <b>114</b>, a print data conversion unit <b>115</b>, a printing unit <b>116</b>, and a storage unit <b>117</b>, as shown in FIG. <b>2</b>.

The original image data capture unit <b>111</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and performs capture processing of the data of a scenic image picked up by a CCD camera or the like (not shown).

The two-dimensional bar code creating unit <b>112</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and performs two-dimensional bar code processing of desired information according to a predetermined manner.

The specific color input unit <b>113</b> is a device for inputting the information data of the specific color for the two-dimensional bar code, for example, the data of color comprising 70% cyan, 40% magenta and 10% yellow.

The data of the original image captured from the original image data capture unit <b>111</b>, the two-dimensional bar codes created by the two-dimensional bar code creating unit <b>112</b>, and the data of the specific color for the two-dimensional bar code input into the specific color input unit <b>113</b> are sent to the image data synthesizing unit <b>114</b>, to be synthesized.

First, the image data synthesizing unit <b>114</b> extracts the portion with the specific color which was input at the specific color input unit <b>113</b>, in the original image data, and changes the color data of the portion with the specific color to a color other than the specific color. Thereafter, the data of the two-dimensional bar codes are superimposed on the data of the changed color original image, and replaces the color data of every portion which superimposes on the two-dimensional bar codes, to that of the specific color, to make a synthesized image.

The image data synthesizing unit <b>114</b> can also synthesize a plurality of different units of two-dimensional bar codes with an original image data by superimposing the data of a plurality of desired different units of two-dimensional bar codes on a plurality of different regions on the data of the color original image and by repeatedly performing the processes similar to the above-described one.

The print data conversion unit <b>115</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and performs conversion of the image data synthesized at the image data synthesizing unit <b>114</b> to printing data.

The printing unit <b>116</b> prints a synthesized image with determined colors on the printing paper <b>105</b> according to the printing data.

The storage unit <b>117</b> stores the data of the two-dimensional bar code created by the two-dimensional bar code creating unit <b>112</b>, the information data of the specific color input from the specific color input unit <b>13</b>, the color image data composed by the image data synthesizing unit <b>114</b> and the like.

The stored data of the two-dimensional bar code and the information data of the specific color can be taken out of the storage unit <b>117</b>, to compose them with data of another different original image.

As described above, the bar code sticker <b>101</b> is manufactured by preparing the composed color image data of an original color image data and data of two-dimensional bar codes having a specific color through the image data synthesizing unit <b>114</b>, and thereafter by printing the prepared synthesized color image data on the printing paper <b>105</b>.

In the information code printed article according to the present invention, because the two-dimensional bar codes having a specific color are composed in an original color image and the specific color of the two-dimensional bar codes can be selected appropriately to be natural to the original color image, it is difficult to find the two-dimensional bar codes in the synthesized color image so long as a person does not know what the specific color of the two-dimensional bar codes is. Therefore, it is possible to improve the secrecy of the two-dimensional bar codes.

Because when the synthesized color image data of an original color image data and data of two-dimensional bar codes having a specific color are prepared, color data of every pixel having the specific color in the data of the color original image are replaced with another color data, and color data of pixels in the data of the color image superimposed on the two-dimensional codes are replaced with the data of the specific color, it is possible to prevent error based on existence of the specific color in the region other than the region of the two-dimensional codes.

The two-dimensional bar code creating unit <b>112</b> is not essential for the invention. It is possible to use a unit of two-dimensional bar codes which has been prepared in advance instead of preparation of the two-dimensional bar code creating unit <b>112</b>.

The bar code sticker <b>101</b> can be manufactured by a bar code sticker manufacturing device <b>120</b>, as shown in FIG. <b>3</b>.

The bar code sticker manufacturing device <b>120</b> comprises an original image data capture unit <b>121</b>, an image data analysis unit <b>122</b>, a color conversion unit <b>123</b>, a print data conversion unit <b>24</b>, a printing unit <b>125</b>, and a storage unit <b>126</b>, as shown in FIG. <b>3</b>.

The original image data capture unit <b>121</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and performs capture processing of the data of a scenic color image picked up by a CCD camera or the like (not shown).

The image data analysis unit <b>122</b> is controlled by the CPU (not shown) and determines the specific color for the unit of the two-dimensional bar codes which is stored in the storage unit <b>126</b> on the basis of the color data in the image data.

In particular, the specific color for the unit of the two-dimensional bar codes may be a color which reduces the color conversion to a minimum from the color pattern of the image data, for example, the data of color comprising 70% cyan, 40% magenta and 10% yellow.

The color conversion unit <b>123</b> is controlled by the CPU (not shown). The color conversion unit <b>123</b> converts the color data of the pixels of the image data which are superimposed with the two-dimensional bar codes and have different colors from the specific one determined by the image data analysis unit <b>122</b>, to the data of the specific color, and also converts the color data of the pixels of the image data which are not superimposed with the two-dimensional bar codes and have the specific color, to the data of color other than the specific color.

The image data analysis unit <b>122</b> and the color conversion unit <b>123</b> can also synthesize a plurality of different units of two-dimensional bar codes with an original image data by superimposing the data of a plurality of desired different units of two-dimensional bar codes on a plurality of different regions on the data of the color original image and by repeatedly performing the processes similar to the above-described one.

The print data conversion unit <b>124</b> is controlled by the CPU (not shown). The print data conversion unit <b>124</b> concerts the image data synthesized by the color conversion unit <b>123</b> to printing data.

The printing unit <b>125</b> prints a synthesized image with colors which are determined every pixels, on the printing paper <b>105</b> according to the printing data.

The storage unit <b>126</b> stores the data of the two-dimensional bar code, the information data of the specific color determined by the image data analysis unit <b>122</b>, the color image data composed by the color conversion unit <b>123</b>.

As described above, the bar code sticker <b>101</b> is manufactured by determining the specific color of the two-dimensional bar codes, which reduces the color conversion to a minimum from the color pattern of the image data, by the image data analysis unit <b>122</b>, and thereafter by printing the converted color image data on the printing paper <b>105</b>.

In the information code printed article according to the present invention, because the two-dimensional bar codes having a specific color can be prepared on the basis of a desired color image data directly, the specific color of the two-dimensional bar codes for each image is different from one another. Therefore, it is possible to improve the secrecy of the two-dimensional bar codes.

Because each synthesized color image data has a peculiar specific color of the two-dimensional bar codes, it is possible to improve the secrecy of the two-dimensional bar codes more than use of a common specific color.

Next, an embodiment of the bar code reading device <b>130</b> for reading the two-dimensional color bar codes in the synthesized image portion <b>104</b> will be explained with reference to FIG. <b>4</b>.

The bar code reading device <b>130</b> comprises a light source unit <b>131</b>, a light control unit <b>132</b>, a filter <b>33</b>, a photoelectric conversion unit <b>134</b>, an A/D conversion unit <b>135</b>, a bar code obtaining unit <b>136</b> and a decoder <b>137</b>.

The light source unit <b>131</b> in the bar code reading device <b>130</b> emits a light with a frequency corresponding to the specific color of the two-dimensional color bar codes which is controlled by the light control unit <b>132</b>, to provide an illumination thereof to the synthesized image portion <b>104</b> of the bar code sticker <b>101</b>.

The light control unit <b>132</b> is controlled by the CPU (not shown), and controls the light source unit <b>131</b> to provide an illumination light with a frequency corresponding to the specific color so that the reading device can receive a reflected light of only the specific color.

The filter <b>133</b> separates the reflected light from the synthesized image portion <b>104</b> into frequency components.

The photoelectric conversion unit <b>134</b> converts the light of each frequency component separated by the filter <b>133</b> to an electric signal.

The A/D conversion unit <b>135</b> converts the analog electric signal converted by the photoelectric conversion unit <b>134</b> to digital signal.

The bar code obtaining unit <b>136</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and obtains the two-dimensional bar codes with a specific color by reversing the digital electric signal from the A/D conversion unit <b>135</b>.

The decoder <b>137</b> decodes to read a predetermined information in the two-dimensional bar codes obtained by the bar code obtaining unit <b>136</b>.

When the entirety of the two-dimensional bar codes cannot be read by a single specific color, it can be read by repeatedly performing the above-described reading operations.

As described above, in the embodiment, an illumination of the light with a frequency corresponding to the specific color of the two-dimensional color bar codes is given to the synthesized image portion <b>104</b> in which the specific color of the two-dimensional color bar codes is hidden, of the bar code sticker <b>101</b>. Thereafter, the data of the two-dimensional color bar codes with the specific color are extracted on the basis of the reflected light from the synthesized image portion and decoded to read.

The bar code reading device <b>130</b> according to the embodiment can be manufactured by adding only the light control unit <b>132</b> to an existing bar code reader. Therefore, it is possible to manufacture the bar code reading device at a low cost.

As a bar code reading device, an image scanner can be adopted, as shown in FIG. <b>5</b>.

The bar code reading device <b>140</b> comprises an image scanner <b>141</b>, an image analysis unit <b>142</b> and a decoder <b>143</b>.

The image scanner <b>141</b> comprises a CCD sensor (not shown) and converts an image information of color image data to digital signals every pixel, to output to the image analysis unit <b>142</b>.

The image analysis unit <b>142</b> extracts an image of the specific color from the color image data captured by the image scanner <b>141</b> to obtain the data of a unit of the two-dimensional color bar codes.

In this case, the entirety of the two-dimensional color bar codes may comprise a combination of a plurality of units with different colors.

The decoder <b>143</b> decodes to read a predetermined information in the two-dimensional bar codes obtained by the image analysis unit <b>142</b>.

As described above, in the embodiment, the data of the two-dimensional color bar codes are extracted by obtaining the image of the specific color from the captured color image data and are decoded to read.

According to the embodiment of the invention, because the two-dimensional bar codes having a specific color are included in the color image data, it is difficult to find the two-dimensional bar codes in the synthesized color image so long as a person does not know what the specific color of the two-dimensional bar codes is. Therefore, it is possible to improve the secrecy of the two-dimensional bar codes.

That is, because the two-dimensional bar codes having a specific color are hidden in the color image data, existence of the two-dimensional bar codes cannot be recognized by only seeing the color image. Therefore, it is possible to improve the secrecy of the information of the two-dimensional bar codes in comparison with the information in conventional two-dimensional bar codes or in a magnetic card, in which the information codes are exposed to the outside.

Because two-dimensional bar codes are used as information codes, it is possible to increase the amount of information contained in the codes and to make the color image data including bar codes easily.

In the above-described embodiments, although only two-dimensional bar codes is disclosed as information codes, the invention is not limited to this, it is also possible to use 3D-hologram which is composed in the color image.

A plurality of units of different information codes with a specific color are also contained in a color image. Accordingly, it is possible to increase the amount of information contained in the codes and to improve the secrecy of the information of the two-dimensional bar codes.

It is possible to further improve the secrecy of the information of the two-dimensional bar codes by using a combination of a plurality of specific colors of the two-dimensional bar codes.

Other embodiments of the information code product of the invention, an apparatus and method for manufacturing the information code product, and an information code reading device, will be explained, with reference to FIGS. 6-16B.

FIG. 6 shows an identification card, i.e., ID card, according to another embodiment of the information code product of the present invention.

In this figure, the ID card <b>201</b> such as a company ID which is an information code product comprises a card substrate <b>203</b> and a synthesis image portion <b>202</b> having a synthesis image including an owner's face picture, which is printed on the card substrate <b>203</b>. The synthesis image printed on the card substrate <b>203</b> is obtained by synthesizing data of an original image <b>204</b> which includes an owner's face picture <b>205</b> and a background (space) image <b>206</b>, which is shown in FIG. 7, with four split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes, obtained by splitting a prepared unit <b>207</b> of two-dimensional bar codes into four, which is shown in FIG. <b>8</b>. When synthesizing, each of the four split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes is synthesized at a desired position on the original image <b>204</b>.

The four split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes are hidden in corresponding small regions <b>202</b><i>a, </i><b>202</b><i>b, </i><b>202</b><i>c </i>and <b>202</b><i>d </i>of the synthesis image portion <b>202</b> in a way that a person cannot recognize the existence of them visually unless the person uses the reading apparatus of the invention. One <b>207</b><i>d </i>of the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes is scaled down and is synthesized in the region <b>202</b><i>d </i>in the face picture <b>205</b> of the original image <b>204</b>.

The entirety of unit <b>207</b> of two-dimensional bar codes is not obtained until the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d </i>is scaled up by the original size thereof and thereafter four split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes are appropriately combined.

The two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b> have a particular color containing a particular color ratio of cyan, magenta, yellow and black. The colors of four split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes may be different from one another.

Next, the apparatus and method for manufacturing an ID card <b>201</b> will be explained with reference to FIG. <b>9</b>.

In order to manufacture the ID card <b>201</b>, an ID card manufacturing device <b>210</b> is used. For example, the ID card manufacturing device <b>210</b> comprises a data input section <b>211</b>, an original image data capture section <b>212</b>, a two-dimensional bar code creating section <b>213</b>, a specific color input section <b>214</b>, a two-dimensional bar code split section <b>215</b>, a synthesizing position designating section <b>216</b>, an image data synthesizing section <b>217</b>, a print data conversion section <b>218</b>, a printing section <b>219</b>, and a storage section <b>220</b>, as shown in FIG. <b>9</b>.

The data input section <b>211</b> is for inputting necessary information, for example, character data (text data), e.g., a particular person's name such as the card owner's name, address, date of birth, company ID number and the like, and image data of the face picture <b>205</b>.

The original image data capture section <b>212</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and performs capture processing of the image data of the face picture <b>205</b> which were input through the data input section <b>211</b> and data of the background image (space image) <b>206</b> which were created in advance by Computer Graphics, i.e., CG.

The two-dimensional bar code creating section <b>213</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and performs two-dimensional bar code processing of desired information, e.g., the character data input through the data input section <b>211</b>, according to a predetermined manner.

The specific color input section <b>214</b> is for inputting the information data of the specific color for the two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b>, for example, the data of color comprising 70% cyan, 40% magenta, 10% yellow and 10% black, or the like.

The two-dimensional bar code split section <b>215</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and splits the unit of the two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b> into a predetermined number of pieces, e.g., into four pieces, each to have a predetermined size, as shown in FIG. <b>8</b>. Thereafter, one or more of the split pieces of two-dimensional bar codes, for example, the split piece <b>207</b><i>d </i>is scaled down into a predetermined size to make a scaled-down split piece of two-dimensional bar codes.

The synthesizing position designating section <b>216</b> which is controlled by a CPU (not shown), designates each central position and each size of the region from respective central position, of the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b </i>and <b>207</b><i>c </i>of two-dimensional bar codes and of the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d, </i>to be synthesized on the original image <b>204</b> by using x and y coordinates formed on the original image. Thus, the positions of the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b </i>and <b>207</b><i>c </i>and the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d </i>to be synthesized on the space image <b>206</b> and the face image <b>205</b>, in the original image <b>204</b> are determined.

The image data synthesizing section <b>217</b> which is controlled by a CPU (not shown), extracts portions in the regions of the original image data, designated by the synthesizing position designating section <b>216</b>, having the specific color which is input through the specific color input section <b>214</b> and changes the color data of the designated portions to a color other than the specific color. Thereafter, the data of the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b </i>and <b>207</b><i>c </i>and the data of the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d, </i>of two-dimensional bar codes which are created by the two-dimensional bar code creating section <b>3213</b> are superimposed on the data of the original image, to replace the color data of every pixel which superimposes on the two-dimensional bar codes, to the color data of the specific color.

The print data conversion section <b>218</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and performs conversion of the image data synthesized at the image data synthesizing unit <b>217</b> to printing data.

The printing section <b>219</b> prints a synthesized image with colors which are determined, on the card substrate <b>203</b> according to the printing data.

The storage section <b>220</b> stores the data of the two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b> created by the two-dimensional bar code creating section <b>213</b>, the size of and how to combine (arrangement relationship therebetween) the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d, </i>the size of the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d, </i>the scale-down ratio, the information of positions on the ID card <b>201</b>, for the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b </i>and <b>207</b><i>c </i>of two-dimensional bar codes and of the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d </i>which are designated by the synthesizing position designating section <b>216</b>, the information of the specific color input through the specific color input section <b>214</b>, the data of image synthesized by the image data synthesizing section <b>217</b> and the like.

As described above, the ID card <b>201</b> is manufactured by splitting a unit of two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b> into a plurality of pieces, scaling down one of the split pieces of two-dimensional bar codes, synthesizing the data of the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b </i>and <b>207</b><i>c </i>and the data of the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d, </i>of two-dimensional bar codes at desired positions and in desired regions on the original image <b>204</b>, which are designated by the synthesizing position designating section <b>216</b>, to make data of synthesized image, by the image data synthesizing unit <b>217</b> and printing the data of synthesized image on the card substrate <b>203</b>.

In the embodiment, because entirety of unit <b>207</b> of two-dimensional bar codes is not obtained until the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d </i>is scaled up by the original size thereof and thereafter four split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes are appropriately combined, no person can obtain the complete unit <b>207</b> of two-dimensional bar codes unless the person knows the synthesizing positions and regions, the particular color of two-dimensional bar codes, the scale-down ratio of the scaled-down split piece, and the arrangement relationship between the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d. </i>According to the embodiment, it is possible to improve security for the two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b> and to increase flexibility for design of the ID card <b>1</b> because the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes can be arranged at desired positions on the original image <b>204</b>.

Next, an embodiment of the bar code reading device <b>230</b> for reading the two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b> in the synthesized image <b>202</b> on the above-described ID card <b>201</b> will be explained with reference to FIG. <b>10</b>.

The bar code reading device <b>230</b> comprises a storage section <b>231</b>, a reading position designating section <b>232</b>, a light source section <b>233</b>, a light control section <b>234</b>, a filter <b>235</b>, a photoelectric conversion section <b>236</b>, an A/D conversion section <b>237</b>, a bar code obtaining section <b>238</b> and a decoder <b>239</b>.

The storage section <b>231</b> stores the regions <b>202</b><i>a </i>to <b>202</b><i>d </i>for the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b </i>and <b>207</b><i>c </i>of two-dimensional bar codes and the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d, </i>in the synthesized image data, that is, the central positions and the regions (size) which are measured on the basis of the central positions, of the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>by using x and y coordinates on the synthesized image data, the scale-down ratio of the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d, </i>how to combine the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d, </i>to obtain the original unit <b>207</b> of two-dimensional bar codes before splitting, and the like.

The reading position designating section <b>232</b> designates the regions <b>202</b><i>a </i>to <b>202</b><i>d </i>on the synthesized image to be illuminated in order to read the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b </i>and <b>207</b><i>c </i>of two-dimensional bar codes and the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d, </i>on the basis of the data stored in the storage section <b>231</b>. The designation is carried out on the basis of the central positions, e.g., the starting point of the arrow, for the region <b>202</b><i>b </i>in FIG. 6, of the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>by x and y coordinates and the regions (the lengths from the starting point to the rectangular sides), e.g., the region <b>202</b><i>b </i>enclosed by a broken line in FIG. <b>6</b>.

The light source section <b>233</b> in the bar code reading device <b>230</b> emits a light with a frequency corresponding to the specific color of the two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b> which is controlled by the light control section <b>234</b>, to provide an illumination thereof to the regions <b>202</b><i>a </i>to <b>202</b><i>d </i>on the synthesized image <b>202</b> of the ID card <b>201</b>.

The light control section <b>234</b> is controlled by the CPU (not shown), and controls the light source section <b>233</b> to provide an illumination light having a distribution of specific frequency corresponding to the specific color so that the reading device can receive a strong reflected light of the specific color.

The filter <b>235</b> separates the reflected light from the synthesized image <b>202</b> of the ID card <b>201</b> into frequency components.

The photoelectric conversion section <b>236</b> converts the light of each frequency component separated by the filter <b>235</b> to an electric signal.

The A/D conversion section <b>237</b> converts the analog electric signal converted by the photoelectric conversion section <b>236</b> to digital signal.

The bar code obtaining section <b>238</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and obtains the data of split pieces of the two-dimensional bar codes with a specific color by reversing the digital electric signal from the A/D conversion unit <b>237</b>. Thereafter, the bar code obtaining section <b>238</b> scales up the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes to the original size thereof, and combining the data of the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes in a pre-designated combination manner, on the basis of the data stored in the storage section <b>231</b>, to obtain the entirety of the original two-dimensional bar codes before splitting.

The decoder <b>239</b> decodes to read a predetermined information in the two-dimensional bar codes obtained by the bar code obtaining section <b>238</b>.

When the entirety of the two-dimensional bar codes cannot be read by a single specific color, it can be read by repeatedly performing the above-described reading operations for another specific color.

As described above, in the bar code reading device <b>230</b> of the embodiment, first, the specific regions <b>202</b><i>a </i>to <b>202</b><i>d </i>on the synthesized image <b>202</b> of the ID card <b>201</b> is designated. Then, a light with the specific color which is the same as the one of the split pieces of two-dimensional bar codes hidden in the regions <b>202</b><i>a </i>to <b>202</b><i>d </i>is illuminated onto the designated regions. From the data of light reflected from the specific regions, the data of the split pieces of two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b><i>a </i>to <b>207</b><i>d </i>are extracted. After the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes is scaled up to its original size, all of the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes are combined by a pre-designated combination manner. Thus, the unit of original two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b> before splitting can be read.

In the above embodiment, although the light with the specific color is illuminated to only the designated regions <b>202</b><i>a </i>to <b>202</b><i>d, </i>it may be illuminated to the entire surface of the synthesized image <b>202</b> and thereafter only the data of light reflected from the designated regions <b>202</b><i>a </i>to <b>202</b><i>d </i>may be obtained from the entire reflected light to extract the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a </i>to <b>207</b><i>d </i>of the two-dimensional bar codes with the specific color.

The bar code reading device of the invention may be provided with a scanner, as shown in FIG. <b>11</b>.

The bar code reading device <b>240</b> shown in FIG. 11 comprises an image scanner <b>241</b>, a storage section <b>242</b>, a reading position designating section <b>243</b>, a specific color selection section <b>244</b>, an image analysis section <b>245</b>, and a decoder <b>246</b>.

The image scanner <b>241</b> is provided with a CCD sensor (not shown), and converts information of an image to digital signal every pixel and outputs the converted image data to the image analysis section <b>3245</b>.

Because the storage section <b>242</b> has approximately the same function as the storage section <b>231</b> of the bar code reading device <b>230</b>, the explanation therefore is omitted.

The reading position designating section <b>243</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and designates the regions <b>202</b><i>a </i>to <b>202</b><i>d </i>on the synthesized image to read the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b </i>and <b>207</b><i>c </i>of two-dimensional bar codes and the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d, </i>on the basis of the data stored in the storage section <b>242</b>. The designation is carried out on the basis of the central positions of the split pieces by x and y coordinates and the regions, e.g., the lengths from the central positions to the rectangular sides.

The specific color selection section <b>244</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and selects the specific color for the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b </i>and <b>207</b><i>c </i>and the scaled-down split piece <b>207</b><i>d, </i>of two-dimensional bar codes.

The image analysis section <b>245</b> is controlled by a CPU (not shown) and extracts data of an image having the specific color which is selected by the specific color selection section <b>244</b>, from the image data captured by the image scanner <b>241</b>, on the basis of the positional information designated by the reading position designating section <b>243</b>. The image analysis section <b>245</b> scales up the scaled-down split piece of two-dimensional bar codes to the original size thereof, and combines the data of the all split pieces of two-dimensional bar codes, on the basis of the scaled-down ratio, the combination manner and the like which are stored in the storage section <b>242</b>, to obtain the entire unit of the original two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b> before splitting.

Each unit of the original two-dimensional bar codes may have a plurality of specific colors.

The decoder <b>246</b> decodes the two-dimensional bar codes obtained by the image analysis section <b>3245</b> to obtain a predetermined information in the two-dimensional bar codes.

As described above, in the embodiment, the data of the two-dimensional color bar codes are extracted by obtaining the image of the specific color from the captured color image data and are decoded to obtain the information contained therein.

According to the ID card <b>201</b> of the embodiment of the invention, because the unit <b>207</b> of two-dimensional bar codes with a specific color is split into plural pieces and at least one of the split pieces is scaled down and included in the image data, no person can obtain the complete unit <b>207</b> of two-dimensional bar codes unless the person knows the synthesizing positions and regions, of four split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d, </i>the particular color of two-dimensional bar codes, the scale-down ratio of the scaled-down split piece, and the arrangement relationship between the split pieces. According to the embodiment, it is possible to improve security for the two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b> and to prevent illegal reading of the information codes.

Because the information codes are split in pieces and are hidden in the image, and therefore the entirety of the information codes cannot be obtained until combining the split pieces of information codes appropriately, the information code product according to the invention provides excellent security in comparison with a product having exposed information codes, e.g., a conventional two-dimensional bar codes product, a magnetic card or the like.

Because of using two-dimensional bar codes <b>207</b> as the information codes, it is possible to increase the information amount and to make the image data easily. Further, it is possible to increase flexibility for design of the ID card <b>201</b> because the split pieces <b>207</b><i>a, </i><b>207</b><i>b, </i><b>207</b><i>c </i>and <b>207</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes can be arranged at desired positions on a desired original image <b>204</b>.

FIG. 12 shows an ID card, according to another embodiment of the information code product of the present invention. The ID card <b>250</b> comprises a card substrate <b>256</b> and a synthesis image portion <b>251</b> having a synthesis image including an owner's face picture, which is printed on the card substrate <b>256</b>. Prepared four different units <b>252</b>-<b>255</b> of two-dimensional codes, as shown in FIGS. 13A-13D, are synthesized with data of an original image, in four regions <b>251</b><i>a</i>-<b>251</b><i>d </i>at desired positions on the card substrate <b>256</b>. The four units <b>252</b>-<b>255</b> of two-dimensional codes include specific data, for example, address, name, date of birth, and telephone number, which are coded, respectively.

Each of the units <b>252</b>-<b>255</b> of two-dimensional bar codes has a particular color containing a particular color ratio of cyan, magenta, yellow and black. The particular colors of four units of two-dimensional bar codes are different from one another.

In order to manufacture the ID card <b>250</b>, almost the same method as the one for the ID card <b>201</b> shown in FIG. 6 can be used except that the two-dimensional bar code split section <b>3215</b> in the ID card manufacturing apparatus <b>210</b> is not used and that different colors are used for the four units <b>252</b>-<b>255</b> of two-dimensional bar codes.

In order to read the units <b>252</b>-<b>255</b> of two-dimensional bar codes from the synthesis image portion <b>251</b> of the ID card <b>250</b>, the same reading method as the one for the ID card <b>201</b> can be used except that lights with different frequency corresponding to the different particular colors can be used for the four units <b>252</b>-<b>255</b> of two-dimensional bar codes, in the afore-described bar code reading device <b>230</b> and that no scale-up of the two-dimensional bar codes nor combining of the data is performed in the bar code obtaining section <b>238</b>.

In the bar code reading device <b>240</b>, the same reading method can be also used except that different particular colors are selected for the four units <b>252</b>-<b>255</b> of two-dimensional bar codes, in the afore-described specific color selecting section <b>244</b> and that no scale-up of the two-dimensional bar codes nor combining of the data is performed in the image analysis section <b>245</b>, in order to read the four units <b>252</b>-<b>255</b> of two-dimensional bar codes by using the reading device <b>240</b>.

According to the ID card <b>250</b>, because a plurality of units <b>252</b>-<b>255</b> of information codes are arranged in desired regions <b>251</b><i>a</i>-<b>251</b><i>d </i>at desired positions in data of an image and have specific colors different from one another, even if a person could specify the position and region on the original image, of one unit of information codes, it is possible to make the construction for the person not to read other units of information codes. Therefore, it is possible to increase the information amount therein and to improve security for the information codes.

In the above-described embodiments, as the information code product, only a company ID and personal ID card are explained, it is not limited to them. The information code product of the invention can be applied to cash card for bank, student ID, card for using in an intelligent building, health and medical service card, system-access card, data carrier card and the like. Further, the information code product, e.g., printed article, of the invention can be applied to various types of printed articles, e.g., covering paper with bar codes, codes for book or the like, printed article having a company's logo or the like, including codes. Accordingly, it is possible to increase flexibility for design extremely. The present invention can be also used for a driver's license, a health insurance card, paper money and the like.

The plurality of units of information codes with particular colors may be various information in different categories, for example, credit information, information relating to health insurance, annuity or the like. Thereby, it is possible to make a card including various types of information.

In the above embodiments, only character data are shown as information of two-dimensional codes, it is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to synthesize data of a coded face picture image with data of another image. Accordingly, it is possible further to improve security for the information codes.

It is possible further to improve information security by forming a unit of two-dimensional codes by combining a plurality of particular colors.

The authentication system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be explained, with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 14 shows a credit card authentication system, according to an embodiment of the invention.

The credit card authentication system <b>301</b> comprises an authentication terminal <b>302</b> and an authentication server <b>303</b> which is interconnected to the authentication terminal through a network <b>304</b>. For example, the credit card authentication system <b>301</b> is used when a user of a credit card <b>305</b> which is shown in FIG. 15 buys a goods or receives a service from a credit card member shop having an authentication terminal <b>302</b> and uses a credit card <b>305</b> for the payment. The authentication for the user of the card <b>305</b> is carried out by the authentication server <b>303</b> through the authentication terminal <b>302</b>. The network <b>304</b> is, for example, the one using a public telephone line.

The card <b>305</b> comprises a card substrate <b>305</b><i>a </i>and a code including image <b>306</b> which is printed on the substrate <b>305</b><i>a. </i>The code including image <b>306</b> includes a first unit of identifying information two dimensional codes with at least a first specific color, including coded identifying information for identifying the owner of the card <b>305</b>, e.g., passwords, and a second unit of owner's information two dimensional codes with at least a second specific color, including coded information for the owner other than the coded identifying information, e.g., the name, a face picture, the date of birth, signature, and the like. In the embodiment, the first unit <b>307</b> of two-dimensional bar codes including the coded passwords of the owner and the second unit <b>308</b> of two-dimensional bar codes including the owner's information, which are shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, are hidden in the code including image <b>306</b>. The meaning “units of two-dimensional bar codes are hidden” is that the two-dimensional bar codes cannot be recognized so long as a person sees the code including image <b>306</b> ordinarily.

The second unit <b>308</b> of two-dimensional bar codes including the owner's information is split into four pieces <b>308</b><i>a </i>to <b>308</b><i>d, </i>as shown in FIG. <b>16</b>B. One <b>308</b><i>d </i>of the four split pieces <b>308</b><i>a </i>to <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes is scaled down and is arranged in the scaled-down state in the image <b>306</b>. The positions and regions for arrangement <b>306</b><i>a </i>to <b>306</b><i>d </i>of the four split pieces <b>308</b><i>a </i>to <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes on the image <b>306</b> of the card are determined according to random numbers corresponding to the passwords, respectively. The position and region for arrangement <b>306</b><i>e </i>of the first unit <b>307</b> of two-dimensional bar codes including the coded passwords on the image can be determined arbitrarily. In FIG. 15, although the positions and regions for arrangement <b>306</b><i>a </i>to <b>306</b><i>e </i>are indicated by using broken lines, in practice, such broken lines are not formed on the card <b>305</b>.

Each of the first and second units of two-dimensional bar codes <b>307</b> and <b>308</b> has a particular color containing a predetermined color ratio of cyan, magenta, yellow and black. The colors of four split pieces <b>308</b><i>a </i>to <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes may be different from one another.

The authentication terminal <b>302</b> comprises a central processing unit (PCT) <b>320</b>, a storage section <b>321</b>, an image capture section <b>322</b>, an image analysis section <b>323</b>, an input section <b>324</b>, a transmitting section <b>325</b>, a receiving section <b>326</b>, a tablet <b>327</b><i>a </i>display <b>328</b>, and a printer <b>329</b>. The terminal <b>302</b> is provided with a modem (not shown) which is connected with the network <b>304</b>, for communicating with the authentication server <b>303</b>.

The CPU <b>320</b> controls each of the sections <b>321</b>-<b>329</b> and judges whether the passwords input by the user matches the one obtained from the image analysis section <b>323</b>. When only they matches, the CPU <b>320</b> gives an instruction to the transmitting section <b>325</b>, to send the data of the code-including image captured by the image capture section <b>322</b> together with the passwords, the data of owner's use, the individual number of the authentication terminal <b>302</b> and the like, to the authentication server <b>303</b> through the network <b>304</b>.

The storage section <b>321</b> comprises memories including a ROM (read only memory) <b>321</b><i>a, </i>a RAM (random access memory) <b>321</b><i>b </i>and the like. ROM <b>321</b><i>a </i>stores the arrangement information of the arrangement position <b>306</b><i>e </i>of the first unit <b>307</b> of two-dimensional bar codes including the coded passwords on the image <b>306</b> on the card, that is, the central position for the region <b>306</b><i>e </i>by x and y coordinates and the size of the region (the lengths from the starting point to the rectangular sides), and the particular color thereof, the random numbers corresponding to the passwords, the arrangement information of the arrangement positions <b>306</b><i>a</i>-<b>306</b><i>d </i>for the split pieces <b>308</b><i>a </i>to <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes, which are determined by the random numbers, the particular color thereof, the scaled-down ratio of the scaled-down split piece <b>308</b><i>d, </i>the combination manner for the split pieces <b>308</b><i>a, </i><b>308</b><i>b, </i><b>308</b><i>c </i>and <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes, the individual number of the authentication terminal <b>302</b> and the like. ROM <b>321</b><i>a </i>also stores the program for the CPU <b>320</b> to control each of the sections <b>321</b>-<b>329</b>.

ROM <b>321</b><i>a </i>is a volatile storage. Into the ROM <b>321</b><i>a, </i>a weak current is always supplied from a power supply (not shown). If the supply of current is stopped, the information and program stored therein disappear.

RAM <b>321</b><i>b </i>stores the owner's passwords, the image data captured from the card which will be described later, the two-dimensional bar codes, the data of use by the user, and the like temporarily.

The image capture section <b>322</b> has an image sensor, e.g., CCD or the like, and captures the code including image <b>306</b> on the card <b>305</b> to convert to digital data at every pixel and sends the converted image data to the image analysis section <b>323</b>.

The image analysis section <b>323</b> extracts an image with the specific color corresponding to the passwords from the data of the code including image <b>306</b>, on the basis of the arrangement information and the specific color, for the arranged position <b>6</b><i>e </i>of the unit <b>307</b> of two-dimensional bar codes, which are stored in ROM <b>321</b><i>a, </i>to obtain the two-dimensional bar codes <b>307</b>. The obtained two-dimensional bar codes <b>307</b> is decoded to obtain the passwords.

When the receiving section <b>326</b> which will be explained later has received an operation authorization signal from the authentication server <b>303</b>, for authorizing to decode the of two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b> including the name, a face picture, the date of birth, signature, and the like which are coded, the image analysis section <b>323</b> extracts an image with the specific color from the data of the code including image <b>306</b>, on the basis of the arrangement information and the specific color, for the arranged positions <b>306</b><i>a</i>-<b>306</b><i>d </i>of the unit <b>308</b> of two-dimensional bar codes, which are stored in ROM <b>321</b><i>a. </i>Thereafter, the section <b>323</b> scales up the scaled-down split piece <b>306</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes to the original size thereof on the basis of the scaled-down ratio of the scaled-down split piece <b>306</b><i>d </i>which is stored in ROM <b>321</b><i>a, </i>and combines the data of the split pieces <b>308</b><i>a, </i><b>308</b><i>b, </i><b>308</b><i>c </i>and <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes in a pre-designated combination manner which is stored in ROM <b>321</b><i>a, </i>to obtain the entirety of the original two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b> before splitting. The obtained two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b> are decoded to obtain the owner's information and sent to the display <b>28</b>.

Through the input section <b>324</b>, the user of the card inputs the passwords and the like, and the member shop side inputs data of use, e.g., the goods bought by the user, the price thereof, the service supplied to the user, the price thereof, and the like.

The transmitting section <b>325</b> sends the passwords, the data of the code including image <b>306</b>, the individual number stored in the storage section <b>321</b>, and the data of use, to the authentication server <b>303</b> through the network <b>304</b>.

The receiving section <b>326</b> receives an operation authorization signal and a use approval signal for approving the use content by the user, or a rejection message signal for informing of “the transaction incomplete, for example, because of the use content being over the maximum usable amount, from the authentication server <b>303</b> through the network <b>304</b>.

The tablet <b>327</b> is an input device for inputting a character such as the user's signature. The signature can be input into the tablet <b>327</b> or can be also input into the display <b>328</b> of the authentication terminal <b>302</b> directly.

The display <b>328</b> displays the user's signature which was input through the tablet <b>327</b> and the owner's name, a face picture, the date of birth, signature, and the like which are decoded by the image analysis section <b>323</b>. By comparing the user's signature with the owner's signature on the display <b>328</b>, it is possible to confirm if the user's signature is correct. Such a confirmation can be performed by CPU <b>320</b> or a person working for the member shop.

The display <b>328</b> also displays a message for demanding the user to input the content, e.g., purpose, of use of card, an error message when the passwords by the user do not coincide with the stored one, a rejection message when the receiving section <b>326</b> receives a rejection message signal of “the transaction incomplete from the authentication server <b>303</b>, and the like.

The printer <b>329</b> prints the content of use for the user which was confirmed by the authentication server <b>303</b> to publish a specification of use.

Next, the construction of the authentication server <b>303</b> will be explained.

The authentication server <b>303</b> is a computer apparatus, e.g., a personal computer, a work-station and the like, which comprises a CPU <b>330</b>, a receiving section <b>331</b>, a storage section <b>332</b>, an image analysis section <b>333</b>, a database section <b>334</b>, a transmitting section <b>335</b> and the like.

The CPU <b>330</b> controls each of the sections <b>331</b>-<b>335</b>. The CPU <b>330</b> also judges whether the request of the user, i.e., the content of use received by the receiving section <b>331</b>, can be authenticated on the basis of the owner's history of use, the maximum amount of credit for the owner, and the like which are found by referring to the database in the database section <b>334</b> according to the owner's information which were read by the image analysis section <b>333</b>. The CPU <b>330</b> also instructs the transmitting section <b>35</b> to send the results of authentication to the authentication terminal <b>302</b>.

The receiving section <b>331</b> receives the passwords, the data of the code including image <b>306</b>, the content of use (user's request), and the individual number of the authentication terminal, which are sent from the authentication terminal <b>302</b> through the network <b>304</b>.

The storage section <b>332</b> comprises memories including a ROM <b>332</b><i>a, </i>a RAM <b>332</b><i>b </i>and the like. ROM <b>332</b><i>a </i>stores the arrangement information of the arrangement position <b>306</b><i>e </i>of the first unit <b>307</b> of two-dimensional bar codes including the coded passwords on the image <b>306</b> on the card, and the particular color thereof, the random numbers corresponding to the passwords, the arrangement information of the arrangement positions <b>306</b><i>a</i>-<b>306</b><i>d </i>for the split pieces <b>308</b><i>a </i>to <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes, which are determined by the random numbers, the particular color thereof, the scaled-down ratio of the scaled-down split piece <b>308</b><i>d, </i>the combination manner for the split pieces <b>308</b><i>a, </i><b>308</b><i>b, </i><b>308</b><i>c </i>and <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes, and the like. ROM <b>332</b><i>a </i>also stores the program for the CPU <b>320</b> to control each of the sections <b>331</b>-<b>335</b>.

RAM <b>332</b><i>b </i>stores the owner's passwords, the image data and the data of use by the user, and the like which were sent from the authentication terminal <b>302</b>, temporarily.

The image analysis section <b>33</b> extracts an image with the specific color from the data of the code including image <b>306</b> which are received by the receiving section <b>331</b>, on the basis of the arrangement information and the specific color, for the arranged positions <b>306</b><i>a</i>-<b>306</b><i>d </i>which were determined by the random number corresponding to the passwords which is stored in ROM <b>332</b><i>a. </i>Thereafter, the section <b>333</b> scales up the scaled-down split piece of two-dimensional bar codes to the original size thereof on the basis of the scaled-down ratio of the scaled-down split piece which is stored in ROM <b>332</b><i>a, </i>and combines the data of the split pieces <b>308</b><i>a, </i><b>308</b><i>b, </i><b>308</b><i>c </i>and <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes in a pre-designated combination manner which is stored in ROM <b>332</b><i>a, </i>to obtain the entirety of the original two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b> before splitting. The obtained two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b> are decoded to obtain the owner's information, e.g., the owner's name, the face picture, the date of birth, signature, and the like.

In database section <b>334</b>, the owner's passwords, name, address, telephone number, date of birth, signature, history of use, the maximum amount of credit for the owner, and the like are stored. When a content of use and the individual number of the authentication terminal are sent from the authentication terminal <b>302</b> to the receiving section <b>331</b>, these data are added into the history of use.

When CPU <b>330</b> judges that authentication is accepted, the transmitting section <b>335</b> sends an operation authorization signal and a use approval signal for approving the use content by the user, to the authentication terminal <b>302</b> through the network <b>304</b>.

When CPU <b>330</b> judges that authentication is denied, the transmitting section <b>335</b> sends an authorization denied signal to the authentication terminal <b>302</b>.

Next, the operation of the system will be explained.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart for showing the operation of the authentication terminal <b>302</b>, and FIG. 18 is a flow chart for showing the operation of the authentication server <b>303</b>.

When the authentication terminal <b>302</b> receives a credit card <b>305</b> that a user hopes to use, as shown in step S<b>101</b>, the image capture section <b>322</b> of the terminal captures the code including image <b>306</b> on the card <b>305</b>, as shown in step S<b>102</b>. The image analysis section <b>323</b> extracts an image with the specific color corresponding to the unit <b>307</b> of two-dimensional bar codes including the coded passwords, which is hidden in the image at the arranged position <b>306</b><i>e, </i>to obtain the two-dimensional bar codes <b>307</b>. The obtained two-dimensional bar codes <b>307</b> is decoded to obtain the passwords, as shown in step S<b>103</b>.

When passwords are input into the input section <b>324</b> by the user of the card <b>305</b>, as shown in step S<b>104</b>, CPU <b>320</b> judges whether the passwords input by the user matches the one read from the card <b>305</b>, as shown in step S<b>105</b>. When they matches, the display <b>328</b> displays a message for demanding to input a content of use's request for the card <b>305</b>. After the content of use's request is received through the input section <b>324</b>, as shown in step S<b>106</b>, the transmitting section <b>325</b> sends the owner's passwords, data of the code including image, the user's request and the individual number of the authentication terminal to the authentication server <b>303</b> through the network <b>304</b>, as shown in step S<b>107</b>.

When the passwords by the user do not coincide with the stored one, an error message “Passwords Failed” is displayed in the display <b>328</b>, as shown in step S<b>108</b>, and the operation returns to Start, as shown in step S<b>109</b>. In this case, the authentication terminal <b>302</b> may demand the user to insert the card and to input the passwords again, or may inform of it as a denied card <b>305</b> to a management company managing the authentication server <b>303</b>.

When the receiving section <b>331</b> in the authentication server <b>303</b> receives the data of the code including image <b>306</b> from the authentication terminal <b>302</b> through the network <b>304</b>, as shown in step S<b>201</b>, the image analysis section <b>333</b> analyzes the received data to read the owner's information, as shown in step S<b>202</b>. That is, the image analysis section <b>333</b> extracts an image with the specific color from the image data, on the basis of the arrangement information and the specific color, for the arranged positions <b>306</b><i>a</i>-<b>306</b><i>d </i>which were determined by the random number corresponding to the passwords which is stored in ROM <b>332</b><i>a. </i>Thereafter, the section <b>333</b> scales up the scaled-down split piece of two-dimensional bar codes to the original size thereof on the basis of the scaled-down ratio of the scaled-down split piece which is stored in ROM <b>32</b><i>a, </i>and combines the data of the split pieces <b>308</b><i>a, </i><b>308</b><i>b, </i><b>308</b><i>c </i>and <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes in a pre-designated combination manner which is stored in ROM <b>332</b><i>a, </i>to obtain the entirety of the original two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b> before splitting. The obtained two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b> are decoded to obtain the owner's information, e.g., the owner's name, the face picture, the date of birth, signature, and the like.

Next, CPU <b>330</b> judges whether the request of the user, i.e., the content of use received by the receiving section <b>331</b>, can be authenticated on the basis of the owner's history of use, the maximum amount of credit for the owner, and the like which are found by referring to the database in the database section <b>334</b> according to the owner's information which were read by the image analysis section <b>333</b>, as shown in step S<b>203</b>.

When CPU <b>330</b> judges that an authentication is approved, CPU <b>330</b> sends an operation authorization signal which authorizes the authentication terminal <b>302</b> to read a predetermined portion or the entirety of the original two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b> and a use approval signal for approving the use content by the user, as an authentication result, from the receiving section <b>331</b> to the authentication terminal <b>302</b> through the network <b>304</b>, as shown in step S<b>204</b>. On the other hand, when CPU <b>330</b> judges that an authentication is denied, CPU <b>330</b> sends an authorization rejection signal as an authentication result, as shown in step S<b>204</b>.

When the authentication terminal <b>302</b> receives the authentication result from the authentication server <b>303</b> through the receiving section <b>326</b>, as shown in step S<b>110</b>, the terminal <b>302</b> judges whether the authentication result includes an approval signal, i.e., an operation authorization signal for authorizing to decode the of two-dimensional bar codes, as shown in step S<b>111</b>. When no operation authorization signal is not included in the authentication result, that is, when the terminal <b>302</b> receives a rejection message signal as the authentication result, the display <b>328</b> displays a message indicating that the content of the request cannot be authenticated, as shown in step S<b>112</b>, and the operation returns to Start, as shown in step S<b>113</b>.

When an operation authorization signal is included in the authentication result, the image analysis section <b>323</b> extracts the unit <b>308</b> of two-dimensional bar codes which is approved to be read, from the image data and analyzes it, as shown in step S<b>114</b>. That is, the arrangement information and the specific color, for the arranged positions <b>6</b><i>a</i>-<b>6</b><i>d </i>of the unit <b>308</b> of two-dimensional bar codes, which are stored in ROM <b>321</b><i>a, </i>are designated according to the passwords input by the user. On the basis of the designated data of the arrangement information and the specific color, the image analysis section <b>323</b> extracts an image with the specific color from the data of the code including image <b>306</b> and obtains the unit <b>308</b> of two-dimensional bar codes.

Thereafter, the section <b>323</b> scales up the scaled-down split piece <b>306</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes to the original size thereof on the basis of the scaled-down ratio of the scaled-down split piece <b>306</b><i>d </i>which is stored in ROM <b>321</b><i>a, </i>and combines the data of the split pieces <b>308</b><i>a, </i><b>308</b><i>b, </i><b>308</b><i>c </i>and <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes in a pre-designated combination manner which is stored in ROM <b>321</b><i>a, </i>to obtain the entirety of the original two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b>. The obtained two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b> are decoded to obtain the owner's information, e.g., name, face picture, date of birth, signature, and the like. Then, the display <b>328</b> displays a message for demanding the user to input the signature.

When the tablet <b>327</b> receives a signature input by the user of the card, as shown in step S<b>115</b>, the display <b>328</b> displays the input signature and the owner's information obtained by analyzing the two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b>, as shown in step S<b>116</b>.

Thereafter, it is confirmed whether the signature input by the card user matches the owner's signature recorded or whether the user's face matches the displayed image of the owner's face picture, as shown in step S<b>117</b>. When they do not match, the display <b>328</b> displays an error message, as shown in step S<b>118</b>, and the operation returns to Start, as shown in step S<b>119</b>. When they do match in the step S<b>117</b>, the printer <b>329</b> prints a specification of the used content, as shown in step S<b>120</b>, and the operation of authentication is finished.

As described above, in the credit card authentication system <b>301</b> according to an embodiment of the invention, the authentication terminal <b>302</b> sends data of the code-including image captured from the card <b>305</b> to the authentication server <b>303</b>, and the authentication server <b>303</b> analyzes the data of the code-including image to read the information. That is, the information is sent in a form of coded image data of two-dimensional bar codes <b>307</b> and <b>308</b> which are hidden in an image <b>306</b>, to the authentication server <b>303</b>. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a leakage of information by interruption into the line or by conversion of the authentication terminal <b>302</b>.

After the authentication server <b>303</b> performs an authentication for a user on the basis of the data of the code-including image sent from the terminal and send the authentication result signal to the authentication terminal <b>302</b>, the terminal <b>302</b> can analyze the two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b> which were approved to read by an approval signal, and obtains the owner's information to display it on the display <b>328</b>. Because the information is communicated in a coded state and the owner's information is not displayed on the authentication terminal <b>302</b> unless an approval signal is obtained, it is possible to prevent the owner's information from illegal reading and to improve security for the information.

Because the owner's signature is coded in the two-dimensional bar codes <b>308</b> which are hidden in an image <b>306</b> of the card <b>305</b>, that is, it is not displayed on the card <b>305</b>, and the user inputs a signature into the input device such as a tablet <b>327</b> directly to display it on the display <b>328</b>, without filling in a paper or the like, no traces of the signature remain on the paper or the like, therefore, it is difficult for a third person to imitate the signature. As a result, it is possible to prevent an illegal use of a card <b>305</b> or the like, and to provide an authentication system <b>301</b> which improve security for the information.

ROM <b>321</b><i>a </i>stores the arrangement information of the arrangement position <b>306</b><i>e </i>of the first unit <b>307</b> of two-dimensional bar codes including the coded passwords on the image <b>306</b> on the card, and the particular color thereof, the random numbers corresponding to the passwords, the arrangement information of the arrangement positions <b>306</b><i>a</i>-<b>306</b><i>d </i>for the split pieces <b>308</b><i>a </i>to <b>308</b><i>d </i>of two-dimensional bar codes, which are determined by the random numbers, the particular color thereof. Because the owner's information is obtained by analyzing the image data on the basis of the arrangement information of the arrangement positions <b>306</b><i>a</i>-<b>306</b><i>d, </i>it is not possible to obtain the owner's information unless a person knows the passwords. Therefore, it is difficult for a third person to read the information codes and is possible to improve the security for the authentication system <b>301</b>.

Because ROM <b>321</b><i>a </i>is a volatile storage and if the supply of current into ROM <b>321</b><i>a </i>is stopped, the arrangement information of the owner's information codes stored in the storage section also disappear, it is impossible to read the data of the card <b>305</b> or the like when the storage section is removed from the terminal. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a leakage of information by misusing the authentication terminal.

Further, the authentication terminal <b>302</b> has an individual number itself and the individual number is sent to the authentication server <b>303</b> together with the data of the code-including image captured from the card <b>305</b>, it is possible to prevent misuse of the authentication terminal <b>302</b> and to improve security for the information codes.

Although only a credit card authentication system is explained in the above embodiments, the invention is not limited to this. The authentication system of the invention can be applied also to the one of bank card, company ID card, student ID, card for an intelligent building, health, medical and administrative service card, system access card, data carrier card or the like.

In the above embodiments, although passwords are used as the identifying information, a signature may be also used.

The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. Tokugan 2000-137541 filed on May 10, 2000, of Japanese Patent Application No. Tokugan 2000-227602 filed on Jul. 27, 2000, and of Japanese Patent Application No. Tokugan 2000-248769 filed on Aug. 18, 2000, including specification, claims, drawings and summary are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.